2017 Gomez Cruzado Viña Dorana Rioja Reserva [JS93][WA93]

Producer: Gomez Cruzado 
Region: Rioja, Spain 
Varietal: Tempranillo 
Year: 2017 

James Suckling, 93 Points 

"Dark spices, tar, fresh blackberries, tamarind, bitter oranges and dark minerals. Quite unique and spicy but so fresh, with lean, firm tannins that render a nice touch of austerity. Medium-bodied, fine-boned and long. Drink or hold." 

Wine Advocate, 93 Points 

"The 2017 Viña Dorana replaces the Reserva, and it's a commitment to the Alto Najerilla vineyards, with a blend of 60% Tempranillo and 40% Garnacha. They believe the Alto Najerilla is one of the freshest places in Rioja, with the ability to produce sapid and sharp wines. They handled the élevage so that the barrels are in the background and the fruit at the forefront. Despite the very challenging year, the wine shows very well, with 14% alcohol and good freshness and balance. It has a supple, medium-bodied palate with very fine tannins and faint earthiness. It matured in French barrique for two years, followed by one more year in tank. It was bottled in January 2022. Drink: 2022-2027." 

Winemaker Notes: 

"The Baños family originally hailed from Badarán – a village at the southern edge of Rioja. Believing in the potential of the ferrous clay soils and high-altitude vineyards of this long-overlooked part of Rioja, Viña Dorana bears a historic label from Gomez Cruzado for this blend of 60% Tempranillo and 40% Garnacha. Their confidence isn’t bluster as the fresh and intense qualities of this terruño take brilliantly to the moderation provided by 24 months in barrel." 

Alcohol: 14% 

*Price and availability in store may vary. Vintage date may differ from pictured.